Lionel Messi has returned all glory to God after his long wait for international silverware ended glamourously as he won the Copa America title with Argentina this summer.
Angel Di Maria’s lone strike in the first half was all the La Albiceleste needed to beat tournament hosts Brazil at the Maranaca Stadium.
Reacting to the triumph, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner said he could not quantify his joy for breaking the jinx as he appreciated God.
The 34-year-old needed to reach his fifth final in all competitions before eventually lifting a trophy for the Argentine national team.
Messi had been to three Copa America and one World Cup finals but settled for the silver medal in all four appearances until he was determined to win in 2021.
Newsmen quoted the forward saying: “I was close many times. I knew it would happen eventually. I am grateful to God for giving me this moment, in Brazil against Brazil. I think He was saving this moment for me.
“I still don’t think we are aware of what we have done, beyond becoming champions.
“Now we’re really happy, celebrating, but this is a game for the history books, beating Brazil in a final in Brazil.
“It’s crazy. I can’t explain how happy I feel. I’ve been sad many times [with Argentina after tournaments] but I knew it would happen and there’s no better moment. This team deserved it.”
